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Today on Marine Science Minute with Florida Sea Grant: Right Whales
The North Atlantic Right Whale is one of the world’s most endangered large whale species. They were historically hunted by commercial whalers.
Though they are a protected species, right whales are still endangered due to death and injury from fishing gear entanglement and vessel strikes. The coastal waters off Florida and Georgia are the only known calving areas for these whales. Pregnant whales come every year between November and April to give birth.
How can you help the right whale?
- You can report sightings to 877-WHALE-HELP.
- Practice safe boating Stay alert and know what whales look like on the surface.
- Slow down and keep your distance. Approaching whales is against the law, and you must stay at least 500 yards or 5 football fields away.
For information about this and other coastal topics, contact your county extension office or visit Florida Sea Grant at flseagrant.org.